The briefing room was tense.
Shikamaru stood at the board, dark circles under his eyes. "We've identified a rogue faction calling themselves Kurohana—Black Blossom."
Sakura stiffened.
"They're targeting Naruto," Shikamaru continued. "Specifically… through Sakura."
Naruto slammed his hand on the table. "That's not happening."
"They already tried," Shikamaru replied calmly. "Last night's attack was a probe."
Sakura's blood ran cold.
"They know what you mean to each other," Shikamaru said. "Whether you admit it or not."
Naruto turned to Sakura immediately. "You're not going on this mission."
She glared. "Try stopping me."
"This isn't a debate!" Naruto snapped. "They're after you."
"And you think leaving me behind will make me safer?" she shot back. "Or make you stronger?"
Silence fell.
Finally, Kakashi spoke. "You go together."
Naruto clenched his jaw.
Sakura met his gaze, unflinching.
"Side by side," she said. "Like always."
Naruto exhaled slowly. "Fine. But you stay within my sight."
She smirked. "Then keep up."